Last week my wife and I had the opportunity to spend some time in Tanzania. Our experience was amazing and the opportunities to make a difference in the lives of children in this area of the world were everywhere. We traveled with Compassion International and were able to see the impact of a nominal investment of $38 a month.

One of our visits included stopping by the Country Office in Arusha, Tanzania. We had a great time of worship, learning about the program and heard from the Country Director Joseph Maila. It was great to hear his story prior to ministry and learn how he worked his way up the ranks to be the Country Director.

Director Maila shared some guiding leadership principles that he lives by and guide how he leads Compassion Tanzania. It was obvious that Joseph is a gifted leader and I couldn’t take notes fast enough on my iPhone as he was sharing these core leadership principles.

I have named these 6 principles “6 Universal Leadership Principles” because that’s exactly what they are. If you want to lead strong and with integrity, do these 6 things that Director Maila does. These are laced with some of my commentary.

1. Provide Spiritual Leadership

Those you lead, need and expect some sort of spiritual leadership. By example or directly speaking into their lives. He mentioned their mission was the great commission.

2. Advocate

His role is to advocate for staff, partners, sponsors and children. We are called to be advocates for those that we lead and not just sit in the corner office and point.

3. Promote Your Organization

His role is to promote Compassion International around the country. He is responsible to make sure that people know who they are and what they do. Leaders are responsible for casting vision both internally and externally.

4. Provide Leadership and Direction To The Office

The leader has ultimate responsibility to provide direction and leadership throughout their organization. This can be accomplished by hiring, empowering and trusting great people to accomplish the mission.

5. Guard Integrity Of The Organization

Integrity matters… if you don’t lead with integrity and dignity, there is a good chance that you’re not leading but rather manipulating.

6. Cultivate a Mindset of Effectiveness and Efficiency

Effective and efficient operations honor the organization, the staff and God.

These 6 guiding principles can be used in Tanzania, Europe, America, Australia… These 6 Universal Leadership Principles translate to success around the globe.